TWS Issues COVID-19 advisory to units

By David Frey

Due to concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus, The Wildlife Society is advising all organization units to postpone or cancel their conferences, meetings and events until further notice.

In a March 13 letter to organization unit leaders, TWS President Gary White and CEO Ed Thompson said they reached the decision after consulting with legal counsel.

“This is a highly unusual situation for all of us and warrants a response that puts the health and safety of our members and their families at the forefront,” Thompson said. “Additionally, we have a responsibility to the larger community to take whatever steps we can to help limit the spread of the virus.”

The TWS annual conference continues to be scheduled for Sept. 27 to Oct. 1. TWS continues to monitor the situation to determine if it is advisable to postpone it as well. “We are hopeful this will wind down by then,” White and Thompson wrote.

Organization units are encouraged to consider virtual meeting services and videoconferencing instead of hosting live events that could put volunteers and attendees at risk of contracting COVID-19.